General Salgar to Mr. Seward
Sir: On the 20th instant the note from your excellency was delivered to me, dated 13th, in which you are pleased to make known to me that the government of the United States is of opinion that the decree issued by the President of Colombia on the 17th of November, 1866, “on the adjudication of maritime prizes,” is contrary to the principles of international law, that it is null and of no force so far as it may operate against the United States, and that the government of your excellency will consider the proceedings which may be deduced from it as without any effect in respect to American citizens.
In acknowledging the receipt of the despatch mentioned, I have the honor to inform you that it has been transmitted immediately to the government of Colombia for the purposes it may have relation to, and of the result I will take care to give you advice in season.
I avail of this occasion to renew to your excellency the assurances of my most distinguished consideration.
Hon. William H. Seward, &c., &c., &c.